The Glossopdale & Longdendale Archaeological Society was formed in June 2006 and has members from across the High Peak.

GLAS is an independent voluntary association whose aim is to involve local residents of Glossop and Longdendale in the exploration, sharing and dissemination of knowledge of the archaeology and history of Glossop, Derbyshire and the surrounding district.

GLAS aims to enable sites of potential archaeological or historical importance to be identified and help to protect and preserve them before they are endangered or destroyed. We also look to provide information on potential and existing archaeological and historical sites to be used for general local appreciation and education and to help influence any local development of Glossop and the surrounding area.

Membership is open to all ages and a membership fee is payable on joining, under 18 year olds are free. We also welcome visitors to our meetings.

Many of our members are involved in local digs and activities including the Mellor Project, excavations at Iron Tongue and Buckton Castle (Carrbrook). GLAS is also a member of the Greater Manchester Archaeology Federation.

To join GLAS please come along to a meeting or please contact us for further information.

Annual membership fee £5.00.
Meeting cost for members £1.00 per person
Visitors to meetings £2.50 per person
Under 18 years old are free

For further details, including details of forthcoming meetings, please contact Roger Hargreaves by clicking here to send an e-mail.

"Rediscovering Roman Melandra"In consultation with the authorities the society, together with its professional partner Salford University Centre for Applied Archaeology (CfAA), is working towards a Heritage Lottery Funded grant for a community archaeology project centred on the Roman fort of Melandra, at Gamesley.
Since previous excavations and current financial restraints the site has become overgrown and the archaeology is suffering from the incursion of vegetation, land slippage and vandalism. However, its value and potential as an education, tourist and community resource is now being recognised. The community project will provide a long term conservation management plan for the Roman fort, which is one of the finest and most accessible examples in the North West.
Advanced techniques can now help to solve many unanswered questions as to how the fort can be protected for future generations to enjoy. The proposed project will offer volunteers the opportunity to become involved in 'hands on' archaeology during the excavation work and associated activities, with free on site tuition - it's great fun being part of a team, whatever your age or ability! During the excavation on site tours are planned for the public, with an end of dig Open Weekend. All local schools will be invited to take part in the project.
Many years of work, and additional grants, will be needed at Melandra, but GLAS hopes that these initial plans will come to fruition and help to generate new and enthusiastic volunteers to take this important work into the future.